Backpacking Hacks That Will Make Your Journey Easier
I’ve gathered some useful hacks that can really help you out on the road. I’ve been traveling around the world for years, so these tips come from real experience! For some of the items I mention, I’ve added links so you can check out exactly what I always carry with me.
Must Haves
* Packing cubes (organizers)
* Travel towel & sarong
* Air Tag (click here)
* Pack minimally & buy locally
* Plan your travel route based on weather and visa regulations
* Bring a power bank & a multi-USB adapter
* Buy local SIM cards
* a good comfortable backpack (click here)
* Foldable water bottle
* Lock for backpack or safe
Apps
* Use offline map apps (e.g. Maps.me, Google Maps offline)
* 12Go Asia – Book buses, trains, and ferries in Asia
* Skyscanner – Find cheap flights worldwide
* Hostelworld – Book budget hostels and dorms
* Booking.com – Hotels, guesthouses, and apartments
* DeepL – Translate texts quickly and accurately
* Splitwise – Track shared travel expenses with friends
* Uber – Book taxis and rides globally
* Grab – Ride-hailing, food delivery & payments in Southeast Asia
* Currency Converter App – Quickly check exchange rates and convert currencies
* Airalo – Buy eSIMs for internet access when arriving in a new country
Security
* Digitally back up passport & important documents
* Carry a small emergency kit – electrolytes, painkillers (don’t overpack, local options are often better)
* Get travel insurance
Personal recommendations
* Buy mosquito spray locally – local sprays work better against regional insects (e.g. the pink Soffell spray in Asia is very effective)
* Bring a foldable water bottle – refill at water stations; avoid tap water in some countries and check if it’s safe even for brushing teeth
* Airalo – I always recommend getting a low-volume eSIM via Airalo when entering a new country — great for the first few days until you buy a local SIM card. Click the link to go directly to the site.
* Backpack A good backpack on your back is half the battle — you need to feel comfortable! I spent a long time searching and am very happy with mine because it can also be opened from the side, which is super handy when you need something from the bottom.
You can find the link to mine or a similar model here.
